niobat

Niobat, also spelled niobate, refers to chemical species derived from niobic acid or containing the niobate ion NbO3−, typically salts of niobic acid HNbO3 or oxide-based solids in which niobium is in the +5 oxidation state. The niobate framework in solids generally consists of NbO6 octahedra linked to form three-dimensional oxide lattices or layered structures such as perovskite-like materials found in compounds like KNbO3 and NaNbO3.

Common examples of niobates include sodium niobate NaNbO3 and potassium niobate KNbO3, which are studied for their ceramic, ferroelectric, piezoelectric, and nonlinear optical properties. Niobates are typically prepared by reacting niobium oxide Nb2O5 with alkaline hydroxides to form alkali niobates, which crystallize upon cooling, and they can also be produced via hydrothermal methods to yield layered niobate nanosheets and related materials.

Properties of niobates vary with composition and structure but are generally high in thermal stability and exhibit limited solubility in water. Certain polymorphs of NaNbO3 can show ferroelectric behavior, while KNbO3 is well known for nonlinear optical and electro-optic properties. As materials, niobates serve as catalysts and photocatalysts for oxidation reactions and water-splitting processes, and they act as precursors for niobium-containing ceramics and advanced electronic or optical devices.

Safety considerations for niobates align with standard handling of inorganic oxides: use appropriate protective equipment to avoid inhalation of dust and skin or eye contact. Niobates are primarily synthetic or lab-prepared materials and are not commonly encountered as natural minerals. See also: niobium, niobium oxide, KNbO3, NaNbO3, perovskite.